Gewurztraminer is a wine known for its intense aromas and sharp flavors, a grape variety that often sparks debate among wine lovers regarding its aging potential. Produced primarily in Alsace, France, this white wine is known for being rich, spicy, and aromatic, often characterized by floral notes of lychee, rose petals, and ginger. But while many white wines are typically drunk young, Gewurztraminer is a unique exception in some cases, and its ability to age well has sparked much curiosity.
In this article, we’ll explore whether Gewurztraminer can be successfully aged, the factors that influence its aging potential, and how to determine when is the best time to enjoy a bottle of Gewurztraminer. We’ll also delve into the history and characteristics of Gewurztraminer, providing insight into why some bottles get better with age while others should be drunk fresh. Additionally, we’ll offer tips on proper aging conditions and how to store Gewurztraminer wine for optimal enjoyment.
Gewurztraminer Grape: A Brief Overview
Gewurztraminer is a white grape variety that is closely associated with cool climate regions, particularly Alsace, France, but also Germany, the United States, and New Zealand. The name “Gewürztraminer” comes from the German words “Gewürz” (spice) and “Traminer” (a reference to the village of Tramin in northern Italy, where the variety is said to have originated). The wines made from this grape are rich and aromatic, often with a lot of residual sugar, resulting in a full-bodied, rich taste.
The grape itself has a distinctive pink skin, which contributes to the wine’s unique color and flavor. Gewürztraminer wines are often known for their rich aromas, ranging from exotic fruit notes such as lychee and pineapple to spicy notes of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The wines have high acidity and a rich taste, making them a popular choice for pairing with a variety of foods, especially spicy dishes, cheeses, and Asian cuisine.
However, when it comes to aging Gewürztraminer, the question is whether its rich flavor will mellow and evolve into a more delicate flavor, or will it lose its unique characteristics over time. Let’s explore the factors that affect its aging potential.
Factors Affecting Gewurztraminer’s Aging Potential
1. Acidity
One of the key factors that influences any wine’s aging potential is acidity. Acidity acts as a preservative, helping the wine retain its freshness for longer and preventing oxidation. Wines with higher acidity tend to age better because the acid helps balance flavor and structure as the wine matures.
Gewurztraminer typically has medium to high acidity, which is an important factor in determining its aging potential. However, compared to other white wines, such as Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer may have slightly lower acidity, which may limit its aging ability in some cases. Still, some high-quality Gewurztraminer wines from regions with favorable climate and terroir, such as Alsace, may have enough acidity to age gracefully for several years.
2. Sugar Content
Many Gewurztraminer wines, especially those made in the Alsace region, retain a high amount of residual sugar. This sweetness can act as a preservative, helping the wine age longer. Sweet Gewurztraminer wines, such as those labeled Vendanges Tardives (Late Harvest) or Sélection de Grains Nobles (Selected Noble Berries), are particularly suited to aging due to their combination of sugar and acidity. These wines have the potential to develop complex flavors of honey, dried fruit, and spice as they age.
Dry Gewurztraminer wines, on the other hand, have less residual sugar, may not age as well, and are generally best drunk within a few years of release. The balance of sugar, acidity, and alcohol is crucial in determining whether a wine will evolve into a more refined product or deteriorate over time.
3. Alcohol Content
Alcohol content is another important factor that affects the aging potential of Gewurztraminer. Wines with higher alcohol content tend to have better aging potential because the alcohol acts as a preservative. Many Gewurztraminer wines have an alcohol content of around 12-14%, which is typical for the variety. While not as high as fortified wines such as Port or Sherry, the alcohol in Gewurztraminer still helps the wine age.
It’s important to note that alcohol content can also affect the overall balance and structure of the wine. If alcohol levels are too high, it can mask the aromas and flavors of the wine, making it more challenging to age.
4. Terroir
Terroir refers to the unique combination of soil, climate, and vineyard practices that influence the characteristics of a wine. Gewurztraminer is a grape that is particularly sensitive to terroir, and wines made from vineyards with favorable growing conditions are more likely to have aging potential.
In Alsace, the best Gewurztraminer wines come from vineyards on hillsides with plenty of sunshine and well-drained soil. These conditions allow the grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors while maintaining good acidity. In areas with less ideal terroir, Gewurztraminer may not have the same ability to age.
5. Wine Style and Winemaking Techniques
The style of Gewurztraminer and the winemaking techniques used also play a big role in determining whether a wine will age. For example, wines made in a more traditional, restrained style with minimal intervention tend to have better aging potential. Wines that have been aged for a long time (dead yeast cells remaining after fermentation) may develop more complexity and texture over time.
On the other hand, wines that adopt a more modern, fruity style that focuses on freshness and easy drinking may not have the same aging potential. These wines are usually meant to be enjoyed young, when their bright, fruity flavors are at their peak.
Aging Gewurztraminer: What to Expect
1. Development of Aromas and Flavors
As Gewurztraminer ages, its aromas and flavors change, often taking on more subtle and complex characteristics. Freshly brewed Gewurztraminer wines tend to be very aromatic, with strong floral and fruity aromas that are very eye-catching. As time passes, the wines may lose some of their intense freshness and develop richer, more delicate flavors.
Aging Gewurztraminer may develop notes of honey, dried apricots, and nuts, and spicy characteristics such as ginger and cinnamon may become more integrated. The wine’s floral aromas may also become more delicate, and the strong fruity aromas may shift toward dried fruits.
2. Color Changes
As Gewurztraminer ages, its color may also change. The bright golden hue of a young Gewurztraminer may deepen to a dark amber or copper color as the wine oxidizes. This color change is often seen in wines that have a higher sugar content or have been aged for a long time.
3. Texture and Mouthfeel
Aged Gewurztraminer wines tend to have a smoother, more delicate texture. The tannins (if any) may soften and the wine’s acidity may become more integrated, creating a harmonious balance. The mouthfeel becomes rounder and less crisp, and the wine may feel softer and more luxurious on the palate.
How long should Gewürztraminer be aged?
The ideal aging period for Gewürztraminer depends on the style, sugar content, and quality of the wine. Dry Gewürztraminer wines are best enjoyed within 3-5 years of release, as their freshness and fruitiness are most apparent during this period. On the other hand, sweeter Gewürztraminer wines (such as those made from late-harvest grapes) can be aged for much longer—from 5 to 15 years or even longer.
For example, a high-quality Alsace Gewürztraminer made from late-harvest grapes such as Vendanges Tardives or Sélection de Grains Nobles can develop remarkable complexity over time, with the wine evolving into a richer, honeyed, and spiced version of its predecessor. These wines are ideal for long-term aging.
How to Store Gewürztraminer for Ageing
Proper storage is essential for the successful aging of Gewürztraminer wines. Here are some tips for storing Gewürztraminer to ensure it ages in optimal conditions:
Temperature: Store Gewürztraminer at a constant, cool temperature, ideally 50-55°F (10-13°C). Temperature fluctuations can cause the wine to age prematurely or unevenly.
Humidity: Moderate humidity (around 70%) helps prevent the cork from drying out and ensures a tight seal. This is especially important for long-term aging.
Position: Lay the bottle on its side to keep the cork moist and ensure the wine remains in contact with the cork. This helps prevent oxidation and preserve the freshness of the wine.
Light: Avoid direct sunlight or artificial light, as UV rays can damage the wine and accelerate aging. Store the bottle in a dark place or in a wine cellar.
Conclusion
So, can Gewürztraminer age? The answer is yes, but it depends on the style, sweetness, and quality of the wine. Dry Gewürztraminer wines are best enjoyed young, while sweeter, late-ripening versions can age for many years. Aging Gewürztraminer allows its complex aromas and flavors to continue to develop, creating a richer, more sophisticated experience.
If you have a bottle of Gewürztraminer that you plan to age, make sure to store it in the proper conditions and monitor its changes over time. Whether you enjoy a young, fresh bottle of Gewürztraminer or one that has matured to perfection, Gewürztraminer remains a fascinating and enjoyable wine that offers a unique tasting experience at every stage of its life.
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